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The Idaho Lions Eye Bank is dedicated to restoration of sight through the promotion and advancement of eye banking. The Questions in the following page are frequently asked about donation and transplantation. We hope the answers will help you decide to donate and will encourage you to take the necessary steps to ensure that your wishes are respected.

Every year thousands of corneal transplants are performed across the country, restoring precious sight to young and old. Anyone can be a donor regardless of age...and, you do not need good vision to donate! It is imperative that your family members know of your desire to donate. Even if you have a signed donor card, the next-of-kin is required to consent for donation. Tell your immediate family, so they will know you wish to donate.

What is an Eye Bank?

An eye bank is a nonprofit organization that obtains, medically evaluates and distributes eyes donated by caring individuals for use in corneal transplantation, research and education.

Will Eye Donation Affect the Appearance of the Donor?

No. Great care is taken to preserve the appearance of the donor. Funeral viewing, if desired, will not be compromised

Is there any delay in funeral arrangements?

No. Eye tissue procurement is performed within six hours of death. Families may proceed with arrangements without delays or interruption.

How does the Eye Bank ensure safe corneal tissue for transplantation?

The donated eyes and the donor's medical history are evaluated by the Eye Bank in accordance with The Eye Bank Association of America's (EBAA) strict Medical Standards. EBAA provides standards to all certified eye banks for training personnel in the evaluation process. The Idaho Lions Eye Bank has been certified by the EBAA since 1987.

Is there any fee charged to the donor family?

No. All costs associated with eye donation are absorbed by the Eye Bank.

What is a Corneal Transplant?

It is a surgical procedure that replaces the clear surface at the front of the eye (cornea) with that of a donor. The cornea is the main focusing element of the eye. Vision is dramatically reduced if the cornea becomes irregularly shaped or cloudy due disease, injury or infection.

How Prevalent is Corneal Transplantation?

Corneal Transplant is the most frequently performed human transplant procedure. An estimated 42,000 transplants were done in North America last year. Currently more than 6,000 people are awaiting corneal transplants in the United States. Over 95% of all corneal transplant operations successfully restore the corneal recipient's vision.

What Happens if the Corneas are not suitable for transplant?

Corneas determined unsuitable for transplant may be used for research and teaching. Research on glaucoma, retinal disease, eye complications of diabetes, and other sight disorders benefit from donations. These studies advance the discovery of the causes and effects of specific eye conditions which leads to new treatments and cures.

How soon after donation must the cornea be transplanted?

Transplantation takes place 3-7 days after donation.

The Eye Bank is only one phase if the Lions Eye Program. The Idaho Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation is a no-profit organization working to save and restore people's sight and rehabilitate those who are afflicted with permanent darkness. You are visiting their Web Site right now.

For more information, call or write:

 Idaho Lions Eye Bank

1055 N. Curtis
Boise, ID 83706

(800) LION-889

email julilugo@sarmc.org or sallkurd@sarmc.org

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Modified on 12/28/06